A Rainy but Perfect Wedding Day in Port Stephens

Rochelle and Barry’s Beautiful Celebration

It’s not often that the weather plays such a big role in a wedding, but when you have an outdoor wedding planned. It can!

On Thursday, March 6th, 2025, Queensland’s Cyclone Alfred made its presence known and the rain made it’s appearance. But instead of letting the weather dictate the mood, Rochelle and Barry embraced the day with open hearts.

The wedding ceremony was originally planned to be at Bob Cairns Reserve in Salamander Bay, a place that holds meaning to Rochelle and Barry. Unfortunately, they had to relocate the ceremony to the reception venue at Restaurant 2317 at the Soldiers Point Marina. This still offered a gorgeous water view, just not a sandy feet option.

Despite the slight gusts of wind and the rain, it was an ideal backup for Rochelle and Barry’s wedding. The weather even held special meaning to them, after all, it rained the day they first met!

A Stylish Arrival with Brian Blakes Wedding Cars

The rain didn’t stop us from capturing some outdoor moments! With umbrella’s in hand, we made our way to Pearson Park in style, travelling in the iconic Mustang from Brian Blakes Wedding Cars. We had a short time to capture some beautiful moments outside around the paperbark trees and The Moorings Jetty, before racing back to the restaurant as the rain really started coming down.

A Heartfelt Ceremony

Rochelle and Barry’s wedding day was filled with love and family. Claire, Rochell’s mother, who had travelled all the way from New Zealand, was there to walk her daughter down the aisle.

Unfortunately, Rochelle’s father, Rod, wasn’t able to make it due to illness, but I wanted to ensure he could still experience the day. I put together a heartfelt highlight film for Rod so he could feel as though he was there in person, watching his daughter marry the love of her life.

The ceremony was performed by the lovely Vicki Lever

Family and Friends: The Heart of the Day

Rochelle and Barry’s wedding was full of those who truly matter most. Rochelle’s sister, Melissa, and niece, Holly, also made the trip from New Zealand to be there. Rochelle’s best friends, Sue and Wendy, were by her side every step of the way, as were Barry’s best friends, Garry and Dave along with Barry’s Uncle and Auntie Malcolm and Barbara.

Despite the looming clouds and downpour, the love and support from family and friends made the day feel as if the sun was shining brightly.

Beautiful Florals by A Beautiful Occassion

No detail was overlooked, especially when it came to the flowers and overall theme. A Beautiful Occasion florist worked their magic, creating stunning arrangements that added a soft, romantic touch to the day. The theme was inspired by Rochelle’s request to “make the room pink,” and the florist certainly delivered! The rich floral accents helped to brighten the indoors despite the storm outside, and they really brought the venue to life.

Hair and make up by Toni from Make Me Up

Entertainment by Crocq

The talented Crocq bought the entertainment and had us all dancing throughout the night. The Kiwis definitely know how to get the crowd moving and they kept the energy up all evening.

A Perfect Day Despite the Weather

Even though the weather wasn’t what we hoped for, it didn’t matter. Rochelle and Barry’s wedding day was nothing short of magical. From the intimate moments shared with family to the stunning florals by A Beautiful Occasion and the unforgettable entertainment by Crocq, every detail came together beautifully.

A huge thank you to all the wonderful vendors who helped make this day so special. If you’re looking for a wedding photographer in Port Stephens, please reach out to me, Natalie Grounds Photography, I’d love to capture the essence of your big day!